September 20, 2018 – New York Jets vs. Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns 21 – New York Jets 17
The 2018 season started with the Cleveland Browns ensuring they would not have another winless season when they tied the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Browns then gave a gritty effort in New Orleans, but came into Week 3 still seeking that elusive first win in over a season.
An interesting side note to the game was a promotion sponsored by Bud Light. The company had installed a series of beer coolers throughout the city. The coolers would remain locked until the Browns won. At that point, the coolers would open and it would be free beer for lucky fans.
Both offenses struggled to start the game, but the Jets found some rhythm towards the end of the first half and took a 7-0 lead.
That lead climbed to 14-0 early in the second quarter and things were not looking good for the Browns. However, quarterback Tyrod Taylor was forced from the game due to a concussion and that opened the door for Baker Mayfield, the Browns first-round draft choice and first overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
The change was the spark the Browns offense needed. Mayfield led the Browns to a field goal before the half ended. But it was the second half when Mayfield took over. The rookie led the Browns down the field on two of their three third-quarter drives. On the last one, the Browns tied the game with a touchdown. To highlight the drive, the Browns converted a “Philly special” two-point conversion with Mayfield on the receiving end.
But the Jets continued to hang around and remained in the lead 17-14 entering the final quarter.
Midway through the fourth quarter, Browns running back Carlos Hyde gave the Browns a 21-17 lead with a 1-yard touchdown run. The Jets had their chances but two Sam Darnold interceptions sealed the wins and started the beer flowing in Cleveland.